Milton’s own book-by-book summary with a selection of the finest paintings and illustrations, and links to individual articles.
Milton
In which Michael tells Adam of the prophets to come, and the life of Jesus Christ, before leading Adam and Eve out of Paradise.
In which Adam is shown the events to come, including Cain and Abel, suffering and death, and the Flood.
Christ judges Adam and Eve for their sin, Satan transformed into a dragon, and Sin and Death unleashed on man.
The climax: Satan enters the serpent, and tempts Eve to eat the forbidden fruit of the tree of knowledge. Adam and Eve are undone.
In which Adam is warned again not to eat the fruit of the tree of Knowledge, and recalls how Eve was made from his rib.
Account of the creation of the world, and of Adam in God’s image. Illustrations by William Blake, Gustave Doré and John Martin.
In which Raphael tells Adam and Eve how Satan was defeated and cast out of heaven, falling with his rebel angels into Hell.
On waking, Eve tells Adam of her dream of Satan tempted her to eat the forbidden fruit. Raphael sent to ensure Adam understands the dangers of Satan.
In which Satan enters the Garden of Eden, where he watches Adam and Eve. He decides to lure them to eat from the forbidden tree, but is caught trying to tempt Eve in her sleep.
